Pope Leo XIV used his General Audience in St Peter’s Square on Wednesday to urge Christians to approach Advent as a time of spiritual preparation rather than distraction. Speaking as Christmas nears, the Pope addressed pilgrims from multiple language groups against the backdrop of the Vatican Christmas tree and Nativity Scene, stressing that the season calls for prayer, reflection, and attentiveness to the meaning of Christ’s birth. He encouraged families to live Advent deliberately, describing it as a period meant to prepare hearts for the coming of Jesus rather than a rush of external activity. The Pope’s remarks were framed within the wider rhythm of the liturgical calendar, as the Church enters its final days of preparation for Christmas while welcoming thousands of pilgrims to the Vatican during the holiday season.
In his greetings, Pope Leo reflected on the importance of Nativity scenes as expressions of Christian faith and cultural heritage, noting their role in keeping the focus on the mystery of the Incarnation. He cautioned against allowing the pressure of seasonal preparations to overshadow the spiritual core of Christmas, warning that frenetic activity can lead to a superficial experience of the feast. Instead, he invited the faithful to cultivate interior vigilance and openness, so that Christ’s presence becomes a lasting source of hope and meaning. Addressing pilgrims from different countries, the Pope reiterated that Advent invites believers to welcome Christ without reservation and to renew their confidence in him as the foundation of Christian hope.
The Pope also highlighted practical spiritual practices suited to the closing days of Advent, including prayer, confession, retreats, and traditional devotions observed in various cultures. He referred to the Christmas Novena as an opportunity to prepare hearts for the birth of Christ and encouraged openness to love of both God and neighbor as the path to peace and joy. Vatican officials confirmed adjustments to the General Audience schedule surrounding Christmas, noting that no audience will take place on Christmas Eve, with the next gatherings planned later in the holiday period. The Pope’s message reinforced the Church’s call to balance visible celebration with interior preparation during one of the most significant moments of the Christian year.
